1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2008 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Grand Espace (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 280 kg more than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Renault Grand Espace, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Renault Grand Espace (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Thunderbird | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 83 L |
